Pope responds to “devastating attack” in Parkland

Expresses his hopes that these "senseless acts of violence may cease"

Following the shooting at the high school in Florida on Wednesday, Pope Francis today sent a message to the local Church leader, the archbishop of Miami, through his secretary of state.

The message says:

The Most Reverend Thomas Gerard Wenski
Archbishop of Miami

His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting that took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. Assuring all those affected by this devastating attack of his spiritual closeness, he prays that Almighty God may grant eternal rest to the dead and healing and consolation to the wounded and those who grieve. With the hope that such senseless acts of violence may cease, Pope Francis invokes upon all of you the divine blessings of peace and strength.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State

Wednesday’s shooting resulted in 17 deaths and 14 injuries. The gunman, identified as 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz, was a former student of the school.